Oak Friends

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Tree Collaboration with Fig Class

The Oak and Fig class gathered together to begin work on a collaboration project for the upcoming holiday of Tu B'Shvat.

Tu B'Shvat is the New Year for the trees. It is the date from which we calculate the age of trees (which is important for different halachot). Tu B'Shvat takes place on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. Tu B'shvat marks the beginning of the growing season for trees ni Israel. Trees are starting to blossom there at this time. (Almond tree first.) There are seven special species "Shivat Haminim" for which Eretz Visrael si famous: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.

The two classes will be creating tree murals during the Giving Tree Tu B'Shvat celebration on February 13. Today, the classes joined together to discuss the holiday and read books about Tu B'shvat. Then, they worked on drawing and creating the tree trunks for the giant mural. Families will be invited to add leaves, buds, and flowers for our mural at the event next week.

Indiana Learning Foundations

CA3.1 Demonstrate creative expression through the visual art process or experience

CA3.2 Demonstrate creative expression through visual art production and presentation

PHG3.1 Demonstrate development of fine and gross motor coordination

SC3.2 Demonstrate awareness of the preservation, protection, and care of living creatures and plants

SS2.1 Demonstrate awareness of chronological thinking

APL4.1 Demonstrate development of social interactions during play

SW4.1 Demonstrate relationship skills

Drawing a picture to retell the story of The Mitten

The Oak children continue to explore and discuss in depth the book, The Mitten by Jan Brett as they prepare for their performance at the end of the month. One aspect of our study is a focus on the elements of a story. These story elements include characters, setting, plot, and sequence of the story. The children created drawings to convey their understanding of the story and its components.